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Five to Watch: Potential Chase rivalries
By George Winkler | Published: September 15, 2016 5
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Matt Kenseth vs. Brad Keselowski
Most of us remember the tussle between Matt Kenseth and Brad Keselowski after the Charlotte Chase race in 2014 (pictured). After hearing Kenseth voice his displeasure with Keselowski's move last week at Richmond, which led to Kenseth cutting a tire, crashing and finishing 38th, it's fair to wonder what will happen next.2 of 5
Kyle Busch vs. Brad Keselowski
Both drivers are open about their feelings for each other, with Keselowski previously going in-depth in a blog post. There have been flashpoints at Bristol (Kes saying 'Kyle Busch is an ass' in driver intros in 2010, Kyle calling Kes 'a dirty racer' in 2016 after a XFINITY race) and in 2013 at Kansas in a XFINITY Series race (pictured) when Busch hit and spun Kes. Given the friction, there's always a chance they'll flare up in the Chase heat.3 of 5
Ryan Newman vs. Tony Stewart
Newman was hot after what he perceived as Stewart 'cutting across his nose' before a wreck last week at Richmond that brought out a red flag and led to Newman's 28th-place finish. Newman called out Stewart in his post-wreck comments, saying he should be retired after making a move like that. And now that Newman is out of the Chase, he has the option to take Stewart with him should the opportunity present itself -- and if he so chooses.4 of 5
Kyle Larson vs. Chase Elliott
Don't expect this rivalry to get physical in the hauler parking lot, but it could get physical on the track, as they showed in their Sprint Showdown mash-up earlier this season (pictured). Plus, both are looking to make a mark in their first Chase appearance and might be willing to cross a line -- or get real close to crossing one -- in order to advance.5 of 5